I love the days where you plan on writing about one thing, but it ends up being another deal altogether. Today is one of those days. Writing a blog post for me can be very fluid at times. I think it's far more important to write about what's on my heart than write something that isn't. What do either one of us get out of it if I settle for something less than the best?
I also go against the grain in that I refuse to write according to what everyone says a blog ought to be and cater to that rule of thumb. I prefer to write where God leads me. In all reality, I write for Him and not anyone or anything else. If you get something out of it, it's all the better and I count myself blessed that God gave me a vision to help others through my rantings and writing. It's in spite of me, trust me.
As you can tell, I'm a little off today. There are five reasons for this state of mind:
1. NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) starts in a couple of days and I had a great start for a book... But, no. I went and got even a better of an idea last night and am having to start from scratch. Also, I'm pretty nervous and excited rolled into one because of the task at hand. I need to write a novel of 50,000 words in 30 days. (Yikes! Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me... I'm praying as I type this.)
2. I find it sad how little people have regard for life--or how people are in such a state that they cannot see a way out of their situation. It's weighing heavily on my heart today. What started it? I was told a prayer request to pray for a wife and her children after the husband committed suicide recently. That only reminds me of a friend from Middle School who committed suicide and it breaks my heart how people can feel so hopeless.
3. I had a great time with my aunt and uncle who came into town Monday through yesterday and I miss them, and the rest of my family--never mind Denver and the Rocky Mountains. Sigh. I'm not going to see any of them again until Christmas and it's rather sad and depressing. (But, maybe NaNoWriMo will keep me so busy I don't have time to think too much about it. So, I guess I need to get writing and see if that helps with my homesickness.)
4. My husband just got news that we need to move for about four months for his job and I'm stressing about finding a place to live, leaving this house, and not losing more time with writing. Ugh.
5. I want to start writing a book every 45 days and publish a book every month.
LIFE
How are you living today like today is a sacred gift you are given--meant to be set apart and made sacred through how you live? Are you living life to the fullest? Or, are you taking it for granted?
When was the last time you enjoyed a sunrise or a sunset? How about listen to the birds sing?
Do something good for yourself. Have a long hot bath by candlelight. Even light some candles throughout the room you're spending time in--even if it's daylight. Grab a cup of coffee or tea or even some water. Snuggle with a loved one or pet. Don't forget to dream. Go for a drive.
HOPELESSNESS
Do you feel hopeless at times? Turn to the Lord. Talk to Him. Yell at Him. Ask Him questions. Just remember to pray a lot and get in the Word. If you do these two simple things, I guarantee you'll pull through and will see how there's more faith and hope inside your heart than you realized. You will naturally start to live again if you pray and read the Bible.
Another key which helps is to journal. Throw up on paper as I call it. Get it all out--no matter how ugly. Purge everything you're holding inside so that you can be free inside so that the good stuff can move back in. If you're so full of the bad and the ugly, it's hard for the good to enter you. So, free yourself. Get the burden off your shoulders. So, journal. It helps.
If you are so far gone that you see no way out, make sure you talk to someone AND seek professional help. Christ shows through His healings how God understands people need healing from a variety of ailments--psychological and emotional included. So, don't think that you need to handle things all on your own.
FICTION BOOK SUGGESTIONS ON SUICIDE OR DEPRESSION?
Do you know of any, or recommend any, fiction books which are based around depression or suicide? Please send me an email to: stacyduplease@storiesbystacy.com or attach a comment at the end of this blog post. I would sure appreciate it. Thanks!
I'll try to write another blog post today. Have a good day.
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
Out of Office
I have family coming in today through Wednesday and will not be writing a blog post until Wednesday/Thursday. Just wanted to warn you. I hope you had a blessed weekend.
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Blog #6: Chapter 2 Cont.: The Great Comforter by Stacy Duplease and Stories by Stacy
Blog #6:
Chapter 2:
Hannah and The Coat of Comfort (Cont.)
CHAPTER INFORMATION:
BOOK TITLE: The Book of Romans: Truth From Fiction Series Book 1
STORY TITLE: The Great Comforter
DATE: 22 October 2009 Thursday
TYPE OF STORY FOR THIS CHAPTER: Non-Fiction
IT IS A NEW OR ON-GOING STORYLINE?: On-Going
GENRE: Non-Fiction; Bible Study; Christian Living
LAST TIME THIS STORYLINE WAS USED: 22 October 2009 in Blog #5
OPENING VERSE:
John 10:10 (ESV):
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly."
THE MORAL OF THE COAT STORY
Why do I, Stacy, share such a detailed story with you, readers? There are several reasons. I'm going to share with you how the shopping for the warmth and comfort of a good winter coat applies to our Christian life and walk.
First, think about how good it feels to wrap in a good winter coat on a freezing day and how you put it on with the confidence it will keep you warn and dry--because you were so diligent when you shopped for it to make sure it met those criteria.
Second, think of how it fits you well because you took the time to search for the coat which fit you the best. Hence, it will keep you warm and dry all the more because it fits your body type. Never mind how you enjoy wearing it because it fits your style.
Third, it's comfortable for reasons #1-2 and it makes you feel comfortable.
Forth, think of how it becomes a trusty friend who goes with you through the storms of life and how it feels when you take it out of the closet and wear it that first time of the season. You've got history and know how it's faithful.
THE GREAT COMFORTER
God is our Great Comforter. Therefore, God is like a good warm coat to us and our lives for these reasons:
1. The Father covers us like a coat and removes the stains we have in our lives if we believe in Christ and repent.
2. He, like the coat, offers us protection and assurance we'll be able to stand in the storms of life. We can stand because He surrounds us with His love even through the storms which bring wind, cold, and precipitation in our lives. God offers us comfort through the same storms of depression, hard times, loss, or when we error as a few examples of the storms of life.
3. We can rest assured He'll keep is warm in Him.
4. His will fits us well even when we wonder. It doesn't matter where we are, our financial situation, body-shape, or personal style. He fits the absolute best. After all, He created us.
5. He's faithful, loyal, and dependable year after year.
6. He's a good friend.
7. We never have to put Him away because He's good in any and all seasons. He's always there and always available. The question is: Are we?
8. His comfort costs it all, but it's worthwhile. We have to give up our old way of living and can't put anything or anyone before Him.
REFLECTIVE QUESTIONS:
Pull out your workbook or journal and answer these questions.
1. How do you need comfort this day?
2. How does God bring you comfort?
3. How does God bring your life warmth?
4. How does God bring you protection?
5. How is God timeless to you?
6. How has God brought you through the storms of life? If you're in one now, make sure to write out a prayer to Him now to help you through the latest downpour.
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
Chapter 2:
Hannah and The Coat of Comfort (Cont.)
CHAPTER INFORMATION:
BOOK TITLE: The Book of Romans: Truth From Fiction Series Book 1
STORY TITLE: The Great Comforter
DATE: 22 October 2009 Thursday
TYPE OF STORY FOR THIS CHAPTER: Non-Fiction
IT IS A NEW OR ON-GOING STORYLINE?: On-Going
GENRE: Non-Fiction; Bible Study; Christian Living
LAST TIME THIS STORYLINE WAS USED: 22 October 2009 in Blog #5
OPENING VERSE:
John 10:10 (ESV):
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly."
THE MORAL OF THE COAT STORY
Why do I, Stacy, share such a detailed story with you, readers? There are several reasons. I'm going to share with you how the shopping for the warmth and comfort of a good winter coat applies to our Christian life and walk.
First, think about how good it feels to wrap in a good winter coat on a freezing day and how you put it on with the confidence it will keep you warn and dry--because you were so diligent when you shopped for it to make sure it met those criteria.
Second, think of how it fits you well because you took the time to search for the coat which fit you the best. Hence, it will keep you warm and dry all the more because it fits your body type. Never mind how you enjoy wearing it because it fits your style.
Third, it's comfortable for reasons #1-2 and it makes you feel comfortable.
Forth, think of how it becomes a trusty friend who goes with you through the storms of life and how it feels when you take it out of the closet and wear it that first time of the season. You've got history and know how it's faithful.
THE GREAT COMFORTER
God is our Great Comforter. Therefore, God is like a good warm coat to us and our lives for these reasons:
1. The Father covers us like a coat and removes the stains we have in our lives if we believe in Christ and repent.
2. He, like the coat, offers us protection and assurance we'll be able to stand in the storms of life. We can stand because He surrounds us with His love even through the storms which bring wind, cold, and precipitation in our lives. God offers us comfort through the same storms of depression, hard times, loss, or when we error as a few examples of the storms of life.
3. We can rest assured He'll keep is warm in Him.
4. His will fits us well even when we wonder. It doesn't matter where we are, our financial situation, body-shape, or personal style. He fits the absolute best. After all, He created us.
5. He's faithful, loyal, and dependable year after year.
6. He's a good friend.
7. We never have to put Him away because He's good in any and all seasons. He's always there and always available. The question is: Are we?
8. His comfort costs it all, but it's worthwhile. We have to give up our old way of living and can't put anything or anyone before Him.
REFLECTIVE QUESTIONS:
Pull out your workbook or journal and answer these questions.
1. How do you need comfort this day?
2. How does God bring you comfort?
3. How does God bring your life warmth?
4. How does God bring you protection?
5. How is God timeless to you?
6. How has God brought you through the storms of life? If you're in one now, make sure to write out a prayer to Him now to help you through the latest downpour.
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
Blog #5: Chapter 2 of Romans Book: Hannah and the Coat of Comfort by Stacy Duplease of Stories by Stacy
Blog #5:
Chapter 2:
Hannah and The Coat of Comfort
CHAPTER INFORMATION:
BOOK TITLE: The Book of Romans: Truth From Fiction Series Book 1
STORY TITLE: Hannah and the Coat of Comfort
DATE: 22 October 2009 Thursday
TYPE OF STORY FOR THIS CHAPTER: Fiction
IT IS A NEW OR ON-GOING STORYLINE?: New
GENRE: Fiction; Adult Contemporary; Christian General Fiction
LAST TIME THIS STORYLINE WAS USED: N/A. It's new.
OPENING VERSE:
Psalm 71 from the NLT states,
20 You have allowed me to suffer much hardship,
but you will restore me to life again
and lift me up from the depths of the earth.
21 You will restore me to even greater honor
and comfort me once again.
This is a story based off of my life, of course. I changed some details, but did so to make a point. After all, what's important are the spiritual lessons learned from it.
Hannah Howard grabbed her mug of steaming coffee and headed to her favorite upholstered chair in front of her gas fireplace and decided to sit back and do some journaling. God worked in her life in some mighty and powerful ways the last couple of weeks and overnight in particular. She wanted to record her just made memories with God before she lost or forgot them. It was important to her to remember what God has said to her, what they have experienced together, and how He's worked in, through, and around her.
Therefore, she reached for her favorite pen and her journal. What was it about the feel of each in her hands which brought her a sense of peace and an automatic connection with God? Then again, that was always her objective, so she really shouldn't find it surprising. Yet, she did. She found everything about God amazing and hoped she never lost the sense of wonder. That was another reason why she journaled.
Here's what she wrote on this day:
When I was in the process of moving from Grand Lake, Colorado to Minnesota, and two different climates, I realized something. I lacked a very warm and heavy coat to get me through a moist winter. I was sued to a dry winter where a medium in thickness coat was just fine to get through most of the season. Sure, there a few cold spells where I'd add layers underneath. However, I had the feeling I'd need a heavy one plus layers for the bad days in a moist climate. I tucked this knowledge away since it was May and far from the snowy season. Never mind the fact of how stores didn't even have out winter coats any longer, but swimsuits, shorts, and tank tops. It was the wrong season. So, I decided to wait for the opportune time.
Then, came our first Minnesota snow in October and I remembered my situation. I didn't need it yet, at that time, but I recognized I should start to look around for one. I wanted the best for me: price was right, heavy enough, and appealing to my eye and taste. I would make sure all three requirements were met.
Next, I brought up the subject to my husband. After all, we needed to budget for it and plan on when to buy the coat. Of course, he agreed it was essential and we decided to buy it in a week or less. But, first, the heavy winter coat needed to be located. Even if I found it at the first store, I would go around to all the others just in case. I had to know it was the best fit for my three criteria. Also, I needed #2 as an option in case the #1 option went up in price or if they didn't have my size.
My husband who hates shopping offered to run around with me from store to store over a period of three days so we didn't get burned out in shopping too much. You also need to understand that since I'm a full-time mom, I'm in the house 24/7 for 4.5 days a week. I don't mind that except on Friday night, I'm stir-crazy and can't wait to get out for the sun, fresh air, and freedom! So, this shopping excursion was needed on several levels. Never mind all the exercise we got from walking store to store. Of course, I didn't find the dream coat until the last store. I had options, but none of them fit my three criteria.
The ironic and am using part about finding the perfect coat at the last store was:
1. It was the last store in sequence.
2. It was the last store that came to mind because I doubted I could afford it from there.
3. At that store before I found the perfect one, there were several coats: too expensive, too thin, and/or not my style.
4. The coat I chose was not my style until I humored my hubby and tried it on to see what I really thought of it.
5. We had to cross state lines to get it.
You need to understand my body shape makes it challenging for me to find clothes that fit me well. I'm short, for starters. I'm not skinny. I have a medium-sized frame and am 12 lbs. overweight and am intentionally working that off as we speak and will keep it off this time. I have a bigger mid-section of hips, rear-end, and thighs. My legs are short and so are my arms, but my torso is longer.
As you can see, I have no body issues and wouldn't go into this much detail normally. However, it's needed so you can understand my predicament of when I tried on this coat.
Wait. I need to tell you more of the story.
My husband was ready to hand me a small. I laughed to myself and told him, "Uh-no." I cited all of the above reasons and added how I also needed room for layers underneath (never mind a baby bump if we are successful and get pregnant).
So, he grabbed a medium. I chuckled and shook my head. I reached for a large. Then, we had our normal discussion where my 6-foot medium framed old football playing mate tells me I'm tiny and a large won't fit. Bless him.
The large fit.
The price fit.
The weight of the coat was perfect.
The style fit me like a glove and was the perfect match when I wore it. So, the coat I doubted when I saw it, fit me and my three criteria perfectly. the only problem was it would be a few days before we could buy it.
Would a large be available when we returned? My husband pointed out how there were several on the rack and how it looked hopeful. I agreed, said a prayer, and tried to trust God it would be there when we could return to buy the coat.
6. The other ironic part is how before we could go and buy it, I described it to my mom and remembered the wrong colors. So, when we did purchase it, it was even better than I remembered and they actually ahd even more out than they had when we were there last.
7. When we went to buy it, my hubby worked late that night and I wodnered if we could go get it--after being excited all day to do so.
8. It was dark, cold, and raining. So weather also made me wonder if we could go.
9. Also, it was two days later as I write this journal entry and I still haven't worn it because I needed to scotch guard it in order to add extra protection agianst the weather. So, I can't wait for the weekend--provided I don't roast.
Stay tuned for the spiritual moral of the story.
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
Chapter 2:
Hannah and The Coat of Comfort
CHAPTER INFORMATION:
BOOK TITLE: The Book of Romans: Truth From Fiction Series Book 1
STORY TITLE: Hannah and the Coat of Comfort
DATE: 22 October 2009 Thursday
TYPE OF STORY FOR THIS CHAPTER: Fiction
IT IS A NEW OR ON-GOING STORYLINE?: New
GENRE: Fiction; Adult Contemporary; Christian General Fiction
LAST TIME THIS STORYLINE WAS USED: N/A. It's new.
OPENING VERSE:
Psalm 71 from the NLT states,
20 You have allowed me to suffer much hardship,
but you will restore me to life again
and lift me up from the depths of the earth.
21 You will restore me to even greater honor
and comfort me once again.
This is a story based off of my life, of course. I changed some details, but did so to make a point. After all, what's important are the spiritual lessons learned from it.
Hannah Howard grabbed her mug of steaming coffee and headed to her favorite upholstered chair in front of her gas fireplace and decided to sit back and do some journaling. God worked in her life in some mighty and powerful ways the last couple of weeks and overnight in particular. She wanted to record her just made memories with God before she lost or forgot them. It was important to her to remember what God has said to her, what they have experienced together, and how He's worked in, through, and around her.
Therefore, she reached for her favorite pen and her journal. What was it about the feel of each in her hands which brought her a sense of peace and an automatic connection with God? Then again, that was always her objective, so she really shouldn't find it surprising. Yet, she did. She found everything about God amazing and hoped she never lost the sense of wonder. That was another reason why she journaled.
Here's what she wrote on this day:
When I was in the process of moving from Grand Lake, Colorado to Minnesota, and two different climates, I realized something. I lacked a very warm and heavy coat to get me through a moist winter. I was sued to a dry winter where a medium in thickness coat was just fine to get through most of the season. Sure, there a few cold spells where I'd add layers underneath. However, I had the feeling I'd need a heavy one plus layers for the bad days in a moist climate. I tucked this knowledge away since it was May and far from the snowy season. Never mind the fact of how stores didn't even have out winter coats any longer, but swimsuits, shorts, and tank tops. It was the wrong season. So, I decided to wait for the opportune time.
Then, came our first Minnesota snow in October and I remembered my situation. I didn't need it yet, at that time, but I recognized I should start to look around for one. I wanted the best for me: price was right, heavy enough, and appealing to my eye and taste. I would make sure all three requirements were met.
Next, I brought up the subject to my husband. After all, we needed to budget for it and plan on when to buy the coat. Of course, he agreed it was essential and we decided to buy it in a week or less. But, first, the heavy winter coat needed to be located. Even if I found it at the first store, I would go around to all the others just in case. I had to know it was the best fit for my three criteria. Also, I needed #2 as an option in case the #1 option went up in price or if they didn't have my size.
My husband who hates shopping offered to run around with me from store to store over a period of three days so we didn't get burned out in shopping too much. You also need to understand that since I'm a full-time mom, I'm in the house 24/7 for 4.5 days a week. I don't mind that except on Friday night, I'm stir-crazy and can't wait to get out for the sun, fresh air, and freedom! So, this shopping excursion was needed on several levels. Never mind all the exercise we got from walking store to store. Of course, I didn't find the dream coat until the last store. I had options, but none of them fit my three criteria.
The ironic and am using part about finding the perfect coat at the last store was:
1. It was the last store in sequence.
2. It was the last store that came to mind because I doubted I could afford it from there.
3. At that store before I found the perfect one, there were several coats: too expensive, too thin, and/or not my style.
4. The coat I chose was not my style until I humored my hubby and tried it on to see what I really thought of it.
5. We had to cross state lines to get it.
You need to understand my body shape makes it challenging for me to find clothes that fit me well. I'm short, for starters. I'm not skinny. I have a medium-sized frame and am 12 lbs. overweight and am intentionally working that off as we speak and will keep it off this time. I have a bigger mid-section of hips, rear-end, and thighs. My legs are short and so are my arms, but my torso is longer.
As you can see, I have no body issues and wouldn't go into this much detail normally. However, it's needed so you can understand my predicament of when I tried on this coat.
Wait. I need to tell you more of the story.
My husband was ready to hand me a small. I laughed to myself and told him, "Uh-no." I cited all of the above reasons and added how I also needed room for layers underneath (never mind a baby bump if we are successful and get pregnant).
So, he grabbed a medium. I chuckled and shook my head. I reached for a large. Then, we had our normal discussion where my 6-foot medium framed old football playing mate tells me I'm tiny and a large won't fit. Bless him.
The large fit.
The price fit.
The weight of the coat was perfect.
The style fit me like a glove and was the perfect match when I wore it. So, the coat I doubted when I saw it, fit me and my three criteria perfectly. the only problem was it would be a few days before we could buy it.
Would a large be available when we returned? My husband pointed out how there were several on the rack and how it looked hopeful. I agreed, said a prayer, and tried to trust God it would be there when we could return to buy the coat.
6. The other ironic part is how before we could go and buy it, I described it to my mom and remembered the wrong colors. So, when we did purchase it, it was even better than I remembered and they actually ahd even more out than they had when we were there last.
7. When we went to buy it, my hubby worked late that night and I wodnered if we could go get it--after being excited all day to do so.
8. It was dark, cold, and raining. So weather also made me wonder if we could go.
9. Also, it was two days later as I write this journal entry and I still haven't worn it because I needed to scotch guard it in order to add extra protection agianst the weather. So, I can't wait for the weekend--provided I don't roast.
Stay tuned for the spiritual moral of the story.
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Author News: The Month of November
For the month of November 2009, I'm going to participate in NaNoWriMo which is the National Novel Writing Month. Hence, I will write my novel in this blog and will take a break from my book, Romans. However, I will work on both here in December.
I just wanted to give you some notice about this event.
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
I just wanted to give you some notice about this event.
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
Blog #4: Chapter 1 of Romans: Closing
Blog #4:
Chapter 1: Introductions--Cont. of:
CHAPTER INFORMATION:
BOOK TITLE: The Book of Romans: Truth From Fiction Series Book 1
DATE: 21 October 2009 Wednesday
TYPE OF STORY FOR THIS CHAPTER: Non-Fiction
IT IS A NEW OR ON-GOING STORYLINE?: On-going (#4)
GENRE: Non-Fiction
LAST TIME THIS STORYLINE WAS USED: 21 October 2009 in Blogs #3
(Blogs #1 and #2 were on 19 October 2009)
OPENING VERSE
John 15:1 from the NIV states,
"'I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.'"
PERSPECTIVE
Enough of my extended bunny trail. What God told me on Thursday, 15 October 2009 changed my life entirely and that's not to mention how it changed my writing life as well. However, most importantly, what God told me gave me perspective. I not understand because of what God told me on 15 October why my writings hadn't been published yet. They needed the vision (i.e. goal, mission, objective) God gave me that night. I'll share more of this story with you later. thanks for listening as I wrap up this Introductory Chapter. Thank you for listening/reading to Blogs #1-3. I can't wait to continue this journey with you later. Until then, God bless you.
CLOSING OF CHAPTERS IN THIS BOOK
The close of each blog or book chapter will consist of either:
1. Reflective Questions
2. A Bible Study
3. A Contemplative Ponderance (My sense of humor coming out again. Please bear with me.)
Also, a Bible verse will close the day! Oops. I've forgotten to add a Bible verse to open each day as well. So, I'm going to go and add one to the beginning of this blog today. (Ugh! I can't believe I did that.)
TODAY'S CLOSING: REFLECTIVE QUESTIONS
Today, we're closing with Reflective Questions to help you to:
1. Evaluate where you are today on your Christ-following walk,
2. Help you to remember where you've come from,
3. See/decide where you're headed,
4. Learn lessons from the daily blog reading.
HOW DO YOU WANT TO REMEMBER?
Please decide what platform you want to use to commensurate (complete or remember) the end of every blog. It needs to be how you answer questions, complete a Daily Review, and so on at the end of the reading every day. In other words, you need to keep a journal or you need to keep a workbook you create if you don't like to journal. They are really the same. However, semantics make all the difference as to whether you'll feel motivated ti keep one. Call it whichever you prefer: workbook or journal.
WHAT TYPE OF JOURNAL OR WORKBOOK DO YOU WANT TO KEEP?
There are two types of workbooks or journals: Paper or Digital.
THE PAPER TYPE
If you want to keep the paper type of journal or workbook, here are the types you may choose, but please note this is hardly an exhaustive list:
1. A blank or lined book or journal
2. A spiral notebook
3. A 3-ring binder with notebook paper
4. A Manila file folder and paper
5. Legal pads--small or large
6. Note cards and filing system
7. Anything else you can think of. Also, if you do come up with other other ideas, please add a comment at the bottom of this blog or email me at: stacyduplease@storiesbystacy.com
THE DIGITAL TYPE
If you want to keep s digital workbook or journal, here are a few types:
1. Word documents(s)
2. Email yourself daily
3. On your calendar/planner
4. An Internet journal
5. A blog (to share or keep private)
6. Anything else you can think of. Also, if you do come up with other other ideas, please add a comment at the bottom of this blog or email me at: stacyduplease@storiesbystacy.com
***Note: Just remember whichever format you choose to use, keep it forever and never throw it away. Here's why:
1. You'll want to re-read it later and evaluate where you've come on your journey.
2. You'll want to re-read it later in order to remember what God has done in your life.
Both reasons why are critical. If you want to grow as much as possible and draw as near top God as you are able, this will help you with that endeavor.
But for now, good luck. May the Lord guide you as you complete these reflective questions.
REFLECTIVE QUESTIONS FOR CHAPTER 1
Take out your workbook or journal and answer the following questions:
1. How deep is your faith? Is it shallow (meaning not very good), stagnate (meaning not moving; not warm), or is your faith deep today?Explain.
2. How do you want your faith to be and what does that look like? Describe it in at least 4 sentences. Preferably 8-12.
3. How close are you to God today? Explain.
4. How well do you believe God today? Explain.
5. How well do you know God today? Explain.
6. Do you seek God first in all you do today? Explain.
7. Are you living for heaven today or for man or the world? Explain.
8. Have you been in the Word today? Describe.
9. How's your prayer life today? What have you prayed today? What should you have prayed today, but haven't? Why?
10. How has God spoken to you over the last couple of months and about what? Have you responded?
11. How has God spoken to you over the last week and about what? Have you responded?
12. How has God spoken to you today and about what? Have you responded?
13. What have you said to God today?
14. What have you learned from today and not just from this blog or book?
CLOSING VERSE
John 15:2 of the NASB states,
"'Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He [a]prunes it so that it may bear more fruit.'"
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
Chapter 1: Introductions--Cont. of:
CHAPTER INFORMATION:
BOOK TITLE: The Book of Romans: Truth From Fiction Series Book 1
DATE: 21 October 2009 Wednesday
TYPE OF STORY FOR THIS CHAPTER: Non-Fiction
IT IS A NEW OR ON-GOING STORYLINE?: On-going (#4)
GENRE: Non-Fiction
LAST TIME THIS STORYLINE WAS USED: 21 October 2009 in Blogs #3
(Blogs #1 and #2 were on 19 October 2009)
OPENING VERSE
John 15:1 from the NIV states,
"'I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.'"
PERSPECTIVE
Enough of my extended bunny trail. What God told me on Thursday, 15 October 2009 changed my life entirely and that's not to mention how it changed my writing life as well. However, most importantly, what God told me gave me perspective. I not understand because of what God told me on 15 October why my writings hadn't been published yet. They needed the vision (i.e. goal, mission, objective) God gave me that night. I'll share more of this story with you later. thanks for listening as I wrap up this Introductory Chapter. Thank you for listening/reading to Blogs #1-3. I can't wait to continue this journey with you later. Until then, God bless you.
CLOSING OF CHAPTERS IN THIS BOOK
The close of each blog or book chapter will consist of either:
1. Reflective Questions
2. A Bible Study
3. A Contemplative Ponderance (My sense of humor coming out again. Please bear with me.)
Also, a Bible verse will close the day! Oops. I've forgotten to add a Bible verse to open each day as well. So, I'm going to go and add one to the beginning of this blog today. (Ugh! I can't believe I did that.)
TODAY'S CLOSING: REFLECTIVE QUESTIONS
Today, we're closing with Reflective Questions to help you to:
1. Evaluate where you are today on your Christ-following walk,
2. Help you to remember where you've come from,
3. See/decide where you're headed,
4. Learn lessons from the daily blog reading.
HOW DO YOU WANT TO REMEMBER?
Please decide what platform you want to use to commensurate (complete or remember) the end of every blog. It needs to be how you answer questions, complete a Daily Review, and so on at the end of the reading every day. In other words, you need to keep a journal or you need to keep a workbook you create if you don't like to journal. They are really the same. However, semantics make all the difference as to whether you'll feel motivated ti keep one. Call it whichever you prefer: workbook or journal.
WHAT TYPE OF JOURNAL OR WORKBOOK DO YOU WANT TO KEEP?
There are two types of workbooks or journals: Paper or Digital.
THE PAPER TYPE
If you want to keep the paper type of journal or workbook, here are the types you may choose, but please note this is hardly an exhaustive list:
1. A blank or lined book or journal
2. A spiral notebook
3. A 3-ring binder with notebook paper
4. A Manila file folder and paper
5. Legal pads--small or large
6. Note cards and filing system
7. Anything else you can think of. Also, if you do come up with other other ideas, please add a comment at the bottom of this blog or email me at: stacyduplease@storiesbystacy.com
THE DIGITAL TYPE
If you want to keep s digital workbook or journal, here are a few types:
1. Word documents(s)
2. Email yourself daily
3. On your calendar/planner
4. An Internet journal
5. A blog (to share or keep private)
6. Anything else you can think of. Also, if you do come up with other other ideas, please add a comment at the bottom of this blog or email me at: stacyduplease@storiesbystacy.com
***Note: Just remember whichever format you choose to use, keep it forever and never throw it away. Here's why:
1. You'll want to re-read it later and evaluate where you've come on your journey.
2. You'll want to re-read it later in order to remember what God has done in your life.
Both reasons why are critical. If you want to grow as much as possible and draw as near top God as you are able, this will help you with that endeavor.
But for now, good luck. May the Lord guide you as you complete these reflective questions.
REFLECTIVE QUESTIONS FOR CHAPTER 1
Take out your workbook or journal and answer the following questions:
1. How deep is your faith? Is it shallow (meaning not very good), stagnate (meaning not moving; not warm), or is your faith deep today?Explain.
2. How do you want your faith to be and what does that look like? Describe it in at least 4 sentences. Preferably 8-12.
3. How close are you to God today? Explain.
4. How well do you believe God today? Explain.
5. How well do you know God today? Explain.
6. Do you seek God first in all you do today? Explain.
7. Are you living for heaven today or for man or the world? Explain.
8. Have you been in the Word today? Describe.
9. How's your prayer life today? What have you prayed today? What should you have prayed today, but haven't? Why?
10. How has God spoken to you over the last couple of months and about what? Have you responded?
11. How has God spoken to you over the last week and about what? Have you responded?
12. How has God spoken to you today and about what? Have you responded?
13. What have you said to God today?
14. What have you learned from today and not just from this blog or book?
CLOSING VERSE
John 15:2 of the NASB states,
"'Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He [a]prunes it so that it may bear more fruit.'"
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
Blog #3: Chapter 1 Cont. How Does God Speak to Us? By Stacy Duplease of Stories by Stacy
Blog #3:
CHAPTER INFORMATION:
BOOK TITLE: The Book of Romans: Truth From Fiction Series Book 1
DATE: 21 October 2009 Wednesday
TYPE OF STORY FOR THIS CHAPTER: Non-Fiction
IT IS A NEW OR ON-GOING STORYLINE?: On-going (#3)
GENRE: Non-Fiction
LAST TIME THIS STORYLINE WAS USED: 19 October 2009 in Blogs #1 and 2
CHAPTER INFORMATION
You may wonder what this goofy lady is doing now. However, every blog will now have the above header. As you see each blog, it will make sense as to why it has the header. It will help us all to keep things straight. It's my organizational system now.
Please make note of the last line. It tells where to find the last time this portion of the storyline was used. That way, you can go back and re-read it if necessary.
If you have any questions now or as we go along, contact me from making a comment at the end of this blog or send me an email to: stacyduplease@storiesbystacy.com
Thank you. It should make more sense as we go along because you'll see I will jump from here to there and this will help you to know where I am and to catch up with whatever you may have missed.
HOW DOES GOD SPEAK TO US?
You may already know this answer, but it's always a good reminder so we can check our spiritual progress. However, it might be something you're struggling with and I hope this helps.
How can you hear from God?
How can you know it's God from which you hear?
How can you know for sure that what you hear is the truth?
How does God speak to us?
The answer to the questions above is quite simple--and complex. Let's start with the simple first. God can speak to us in a number of ways, but I'm going to first describe the most fundamental ways:
1. God speaks to us through the Word (the Holy Bible).
2. God speaks to us through prayer.
God speaks to us when we still ourselves enough to be able to listen and doing #1-2 is how we do that. In other words, if we aren't in the Word, and aren't in prayer, we are far less likely to be in a position to hear the Lord. It's us who are at fault if we don't hear Him because we fail to be in the Bible and listening and talking with Him.
I don't know about you, but I find life can be a tricky business. It can present me with obstacles, but I also somehow tend to make life harder on myself. Hence, I find I need to hear God often or I can easily get off course. It's the only way I can get through life. When I try to do it on my own, life becomes quite messy. Therefore, I've learned it's absolutely essential for me to be in the Word daily (preferably all day long and I'll explain what that looks like later in another blog) and in prayer without ceasing.
If I only pray or only read the Scripture, my life gets fouled up as well. Too much of one can be deadly spiritually speaking, of course. Everything needs to be in balance in this regard and notice the balance. Both. Non-stop. Daily. all day. 24/7. Period.
How is this even feasible? You may ask. You also may think I'm a nut. I am. But, not in this specific case. You may also think I'm a holier-than-though religious, super-spiritual chick. That is not true either. Not at all. But, I've tried to sabotage my life in many ways and have made several mistakes. I also have misunderstood the faith. I've tried everything as far as the Christian spiritual disciplines and have complicated the you-know-what out of my faith. Consequently, I've learned the ways to SIMPLIFY it and have learned the ways to apply the ancient text of the Holy Bible to my life today. I'll share my lessons with you.
So, no. If I can do this, trust me, you can. I'm not a perfect-Christian by any stretch of the imagination and I'm a fiction write (so I have quite the imagination). But, I try to please God by bringing Him the glory.
There are other ways to hear God as well. I'll list them in a moment. However, if you are in the Bible, and are in prayer, I guarantee you've already heard Him talk to you in these ways. If you hear the same message repeatedly, take heed immediately. He's trying His best to get your attention and talk with you without having to skywrite His message to you. Listen and respond instantly and without hesitation, even if it doesn't make sense.
How else does God speak to us?
3. Through others. They'll say something He's always told us, for example.
4. Through a sermon--in person, on radio, or CD/mp3.
5. Through a praise song.
6. Through His creation. Sunrises. Sunsets. Babies. Birds flying. The Rocky Mountains. You get the idea.
HOW DOES GOD SPEAK?
Rarely is it in an audible voice.
Usually, He tells you it in your heart and then you hear it in your mind.
HOW DO YOU KNOW IT'S GOD?
1. It lines up with His Word. In other words, you'll find it in the Bible and it does not go against His Word.
2. When you hear it in prayer, you sense a peace inside and don't feel troubled by it (for the most part).
3. You'll hear it repeatedly and in many different ways and in different settings and at different times.
4. It will apply to where you are in your life today and will make sense that what He says fits.
If you feel doubtful, take a look at numbers 1-4 in this section. Then, remember that doubt and fear only come from the enemy, the devil. If you doubt, fear, or have anxiety, it doesn't necessarily mean what you heard is wrong. Check #1-4 again in this section. If any or all don't line up, it's a false message. Kindly disregard at that point.
I hope this helps.
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
CHAPTER INFORMATION:
BOOK TITLE: The Book of Romans: Truth From Fiction Series Book 1
DATE: 21 October 2009 Wednesday
TYPE OF STORY FOR THIS CHAPTER: Non-Fiction
IT IS A NEW OR ON-GOING STORYLINE?: On-going (#3)
GENRE: Non-Fiction
LAST TIME THIS STORYLINE WAS USED: 19 October 2009 in Blogs #1 and 2
CHAPTER INFORMATION
You may wonder what this goofy lady is doing now. However, every blog will now have the above header. As you see each blog, it will make sense as to why it has the header. It will help us all to keep things straight. It's my organizational system now.
Please make note of the last line. It tells where to find the last time this portion of the storyline was used. That way, you can go back and re-read it if necessary.
If you have any questions now or as we go along, contact me from making a comment at the end of this blog or send me an email to: stacyduplease@storiesbystacy.com
Thank you. It should make more sense as we go along because you'll see I will jump from here to there and this will help you to know where I am and to catch up with whatever you may have missed.
HOW DOES GOD SPEAK TO US?
You may already know this answer, but it's always a good reminder so we can check our spiritual progress. However, it might be something you're struggling with and I hope this helps.
How can you hear from God?
How can you know it's God from which you hear?
How can you know for sure that what you hear is the truth?
How does God speak to us?
The answer to the questions above is quite simple--and complex. Let's start with the simple first. God can speak to us in a number of ways, but I'm going to first describe the most fundamental ways:
1. God speaks to us through the Word (the Holy Bible).
2. God speaks to us through prayer.
God speaks to us when we still ourselves enough to be able to listen and doing #1-2 is how we do that. In other words, if we aren't in the Word, and aren't in prayer, we are far less likely to be in a position to hear the Lord. It's us who are at fault if we don't hear Him because we fail to be in the Bible and listening and talking with Him.
I don't know about you, but I find life can be a tricky business. It can present me with obstacles, but I also somehow tend to make life harder on myself. Hence, I find I need to hear God often or I can easily get off course. It's the only way I can get through life. When I try to do it on my own, life becomes quite messy. Therefore, I've learned it's absolutely essential for me to be in the Word daily (preferably all day long and I'll explain what that looks like later in another blog) and in prayer without ceasing.
If I only pray or only read the Scripture, my life gets fouled up as well. Too much of one can be deadly spiritually speaking, of course. Everything needs to be in balance in this regard and notice the balance. Both. Non-stop. Daily. all day. 24/7. Period.
How is this even feasible? You may ask. You also may think I'm a nut. I am. But, not in this specific case. You may also think I'm a holier-than-though religious, super-spiritual chick. That is not true either. Not at all. But, I've tried to sabotage my life in many ways and have made several mistakes. I also have misunderstood the faith. I've tried everything as far as the Christian spiritual disciplines and have complicated the you-know-what out of my faith. Consequently, I've learned the ways to SIMPLIFY it and have learned the ways to apply the ancient text of the Holy Bible to my life today. I'll share my lessons with you.
So, no. If I can do this, trust me, you can. I'm not a perfect-Christian by any stretch of the imagination and I'm a fiction write (so I have quite the imagination). But, I try to please God by bringing Him the glory.
There are other ways to hear God as well. I'll list them in a moment. However, if you are in the Bible, and are in prayer, I guarantee you've already heard Him talk to you in these ways. If you hear the same message repeatedly, take heed immediately. He's trying His best to get your attention and talk with you without having to skywrite His message to you. Listen and respond instantly and without hesitation, even if it doesn't make sense.
How else does God speak to us?
3. Through others. They'll say something He's always told us, for example.
4. Through a sermon--in person, on radio, or CD/mp3.
5. Through a praise song.
6. Through His creation. Sunrises. Sunsets. Babies. Birds flying. The Rocky Mountains. You get the idea.
HOW DOES GOD SPEAK?
Rarely is it in an audible voice.
Usually, He tells you it in your heart and then you hear it in your mind.
HOW DO YOU KNOW IT'S GOD?
1. It lines up with His Word. In other words, you'll find it in the Bible and it does not go against His Word.
2. When you hear it in prayer, you sense a peace inside and don't feel troubled by it (for the most part).
3. You'll hear it repeatedly and in many different ways and in different settings and at different times.
4. It will apply to where you are in your life today and will make sense that what He says fits.
If you feel doubtful, take a look at numbers 1-4 in this section. Then, remember that doubt and fear only come from the enemy, the devil. If you doubt, fear, or have anxiety, it doesn't necessarily mean what you heard is wrong. Check #1-4 again in this section. If any or all don't line up, it's a false message. Kindly disregard at that point.
I hope this helps.
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
Monday, October 19, 2009
Blog #2: Chapter 1: Novel Approach by Stacy Duplease of Stories by Stacy
HOW THIS NOVEL APPROACH CAME INTO BEING
The first of July 2009 brought a major turning point in my life when I moved from the only home I've ever known to another state. I'm a third generation Colorado native; consequently, moving to Nebraska meant leaving most of my family and friends.
I had to set up a new home and help my husband prepare and get used to his new job here in Omaha as well. Needless to say, my writing suffered. It was not only my writing that suffered, though. My writing vision did.
Busyness also consumed me as I had family come to visit and I went back home for a visit.
Then, after returning from Colorado, I had a spiritual breakdown for a couple of days. I hadn't realized at all how much I missed home until I went back for a couple of days for the Broncos home opener against the Cleveland Browns (Denver won, by the way). Watching the Rocky Mountains disappear to my back and having the realization of how much I missed Colorado and my family sent me into the spiritual abyss for two days until God finally got my attention.
God told me to lose myself in Him and forget all about my blogs, my website, my email, twitter, and Facebook.
He is a jealous lover of my soul (and of me) and He demanded time with me. So, between 23 September and now, I've spent 10 hours a day in the Word and tried to pray without ceasing throughout the day and night during that time.
I realized during that time I was the epitome of lukewarm from Revelation 3:16 and was stagnate in faith and in my writing.
Here's what Revelation 3:16 from the NIV states:
16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
(New International Version: Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica.)
I also spent some time writing by hand in a journal and am always amazed by:
1. How much my quality of writing improves,
2. How I get more ideas from writing with a pen (by the way, PaperMate PROFILE pens are the best on the market, if you like ballpoint pens),
3. How I'm more focused, and
4. How much I enjoy it.
Then, a couple of weeks ago, God introduced me to the idea of writing using fiction as a tool for Bible Study. I have to admit it sounded--unusual to me. I've learned since 23 September to proceed by faith regardless of how strange it may sound. My obedience and faith matter far more than my understanding and far more than what I want.
After a while, the use of fiction as a tool for Bible Study made perfect sense. I could write a story to make a specific point about faith and how to live a life of faith today, let alone apply an ancient text to modern living in 2009. Hence, I thought God might have a really good idea. (It was absolutely true. I just let my sense of humor come through and I just wanted to make sure you understood.)
Life was plugging away just fine between being in the Word and in prayer when I made a prayer request nine days ago that I heard God clearly about what He wanted from my writing. When you get a group of women to pray, things change. Prayers are heard and then answered by God. Trust me.
I knew the ladies prayed because last night, God woke me at 12:30 in the morning. (I'm writing this by had on Thursday, 15 October 2009 in the afternoon.) He spoke to me very clearly for the next two hours and now I have a very specific vision and mission for my writing and now know how to go about it for the rest of my life. I took ten pages of notes of what God told me and how I was supposed to accomplish this feat.
I've written about 50 novels I've started, some I've finished, some I almost finished, some I stopped halfway, some I stopped a quarter of the way through, and others I just stopped with an idea. Now I know why. God made it crystal clear why. However, before I tell you why, I need to go down a rabbit/bunny trail for a moment.
More to follow...
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
The first of July 2009 brought a major turning point in my life when I moved from the only home I've ever known to another state. I'm a third generation Colorado native; consequently, moving to Nebraska meant leaving most of my family and friends.
I had to set up a new home and help my husband prepare and get used to his new job here in Omaha as well. Needless to say, my writing suffered. It was not only my writing that suffered, though. My writing vision did.
Busyness also consumed me as I had family come to visit and I went back home for a visit.
Then, after returning from Colorado, I had a spiritual breakdown for a couple of days. I hadn't realized at all how much I missed home until I went back for a couple of days for the Broncos home opener against the Cleveland Browns (Denver won, by the way). Watching the Rocky Mountains disappear to my back and having the realization of how much I missed Colorado and my family sent me into the spiritual abyss for two days until God finally got my attention.
God told me to lose myself in Him and forget all about my blogs, my website, my email, twitter, and Facebook.
He is a jealous lover of my soul (and of me) and He demanded time with me. So, between 23 September and now, I've spent 10 hours a day in the Word and tried to pray without ceasing throughout the day and night during that time.
I realized during that time I was the epitome of lukewarm from Revelation 3:16 and was stagnate in faith and in my writing.
Here's what Revelation 3:16 from the NIV states:
16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
(New International Version: Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica.)
I also spent some time writing by hand in a journal and am always amazed by:
1. How much my quality of writing improves,
2. How I get more ideas from writing with a pen (by the way, PaperMate PROFILE pens are the best on the market, if you like ballpoint pens),
3. How I'm more focused, and
4. How much I enjoy it.
Then, a couple of weeks ago, God introduced me to the idea of writing using fiction as a tool for Bible Study. I have to admit it sounded--unusual to me. I've learned since 23 September to proceed by faith regardless of how strange it may sound. My obedience and faith matter far more than my understanding and far more than what I want.
After a while, the use of fiction as a tool for Bible Study made perfect sense. I could write a story to make a specific point about faith and how to live a life of faith today, let alone apply an ancient text to modern living in 2009. Hence, I thought God might have a really good idea. (It was absolutely true. I just let my sense of humor come through and I just wanted to make sure you understood.)
Life was plugging away just fine between being in the Word and in prayer when I made a prayer request nine days ago that I heard God clearly about what He wanted from my writing. When you get a group of women to pray, things change. Prayers are heard and then answered by God. Trust me.
I knew the ladies prayed because last night, God woke me at 12:30 in the morning. (I'm writing this by had on Thursday, 15 October 2009 in the afternoon.) He spoke to me very clearly for the next two hours and now I have a very specific vision and mission for my writing and now know how to go about it for the rest of my life. I took ten pages of notes of what God told me and how I was supposed to accomplish this feat.
I've written about 50 novels I've started, some I've finished, some I almost finished, some I stopped halfway, some I stopped a quarter of the way through, and others I just stopped with an idea. Now I know why. God made it crystal clear why. However, before I tell you why, I need to go down a rabbit/bunny trail for a moment.
More to follow...
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
Follower
Bless you, Ellie, for following my new blog. Your support means a great deal to me. God bless you!
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
Blog #1: Chapter #1: A New Beginning by Stacy Duplease of Stories by Stacy
Welcome to my new blog. I hope you had a nice weekend and are doing well.
If not, please let me know if you have any prayer requests. Send them to me at:
stacyduplease@storiesbystacy.com
and tell me if they are meant to be kept private or if they can be shared. If private, I'll pray for you personally. If they can be shared, I'll share them at the end of my blog four days a week (Monday, Wednesday-Friday). If you do want your prayer requests to be shared, please give me regular updates about their status. Thank you.
It's an honor for me to pray for you.
Now, let's see why I've written a new blog and start to delve into the Word in a fresh new way. This blog is focused on how to be a faithful follower of Christ.
MY LIFE'S VISION STATEMENT IS...
Turning every moment into the sacred and a time to be with God.
MY WRITING'S MISSION STATEMENT IS...
Turning every moment into the sacred and a time to be with God through my writing.
THE PURPOSE OF THIS BLOG
The purpose of this blog is to share my writing which will bring you closer to God and to be more aware of Him. It's meant to deepen your faith and help you learn how to apply the Bible (an ancient text) to your life in the year 2009. Consequently, you'll get to know God better and will have a transformed life because of this blog.
I'll share my fiction and non-fiction writing with you of every size, shape, and genre. I'll share my novels, my short stories, my devotional thoughts, how to advice, thoughts on writing, Bible study, reflective questions, and contemplations with you. Every blog will be either a stand-alone or a continuation of a story.
MY NEW SERIES IS...
Truth From Fiction Series
THE FIRST BOOK OF THIS SERIES IS...
The Book of Romans: Truth From Fiction Series Book 1
THE OBJECTIVES OF MY NEW LIFELONG BIBLE STUDY SERIES
My objectives for this series are:
1. I will write a chapter of fiction and at the end of the chapter will be a Bible study about a book of the Bible and how the beginning of each chapter is a story to illustrate a lesson to learn from the Bible chapter, a passage, or a verse.
2. To help you learn how to seek Him and heaven first and above all.
3. To help you get more into the Word (the Holy Bible).
4. To learn how to apply the Bible (an ancient text) to today and the year 2009.
5. To increase your faith.
6. To teach you how to seek Him first.
7. To teach you how to live for heaven today.
8. To teach you how to pray without ceasing.
9. To help you know how to know Him (God/Jesus) more.
10. To help you to believe what He says and that what He says is true.
11. To help you to not live for the world.
12. To help you to fight the enemy (the devil).
13. To help you not to live a stagnate life in the faith.
14. To help you to learn to cope through the curve balls of life.
15. To help you to break free from your strongholds.
16. To help you eliminate the idols in your life and anything that keeps you from Him.
17. To help you to live a life of joy in spite of your circumstances.
More to follow later...
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
If not, please let me know if you have any prayer requests. Send them to me at:
stacyduplease@storiesbystacy.com
and tell me if they are meant to be kept private or if they can be shared. If private, I'll pray for you personally. If they can be shared, I'll share them at the end of my blog four days a week (Monday, Wednesday-Friday). If you do want your prayer requests to be shared, please give me regular updates about their status. Thank you.
It's an honor for me to pray for you.
Now, let's see why I've written a new blog and start to delve into the Word in a fresh new way. This blog is focused on how to be a faithful follower of Christ.
MY LIFE'S VISION STATEMENT IS...
Turning every moment into the sacred and a time to be with God.
MY WRITING'S MISSION STATEMENT IS...
Turning every moment into the sacred and a time to be with God through my writing.
THE PURPOSE OF THIS BLOG
The purpose of this blog is to share my writing which will bring you closer to God and to be more aware of Him. It's meant to deepen your faith and help you learn how to apply the Bible (an ancient text) to your life in the year 2009. Consequently, you'll get to know God better and will have a transformed life because of this blog.
I'll share my fiction and non-fiction writing with you of every size, shape, and genre. I'll share my novels, my short stories, my devotional thoughts, how to advice, thoughts on writing, Bible study, reflective questions, and contemplations with you. Every blog will be either a stand-alone or a continuation of a story.
MY NEW SERIES IS...
Truth From Fiction Series
THE FIRST BOOK OF THIS SERIES IS...
The Book of Romans: Truth From Fiction Series Book 1
THE OBJECTIVES OF MY NEW LIFELONG BIBLE STUDY SERIES
My objectives for this series are:
1. I will write a chapter of fiction and at the end of the chapter will be a Bible study about a book of the Bible and how the beginning of each chapter is a story to illustrate a lesson to learn from the Bible chapter, a passage, or a verse.
2. To help you learn how to seek Him and heaven first and above all.
3. To help you get more into the Word (the Holy Bible).
4. To learn how to apply the Bible (an ancient text) to today and the year 2009.
5. To increase your faith.
6. To teach you how to seek Him first.
7. To teach you how to live for heaven today.
8. To teach you how to pray without ceasing.
9. To help you know how to know Him (God/Jesus) more.
10. To help you to believe what He says and that what He says is true.
11. To help you to not live for the world.
12. To help you to fight the enemy (the devil).
13. To help you not to live a stagnate life in the faith.
14. To help you to learn to cope through the curve balls of life.
15. To help you to break free from your strongholds.
16. To help you eliminate the idols in your life and anything that keeps you from Him.
17. To help you to live a life of joy in spite of your circumstances.
More to follow later...
By Stacy Duplease
of Stories by Stacy
Thursday, October 15, 2009
The New Blog of Stories by Stacy and Stacy Duplease
Welcome to my new blog. This will start as of Monday, 19 October 2009.
I look forward to seeing you then.
God bless you. Have a great day and an even better weekend.
By Stacy Duplease of Stories by Stacy
I look forward to seeing you then.
God bless you. Have a great day and an even better weekend.
By Stacy Duplease of Stories by Stacy
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